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7.2. PRSR 03-14-2014 V Cit of J Request for Action River To Item Number Parks and Recreation Commission 7.2 Agenda Section Meeting Date Prepared by Discussion Item May 14, 2014 Michael Hecker,Parks and Recreation Director Item Description Reviewed by Renaming Lions Park Cal Portner, City Administrator Reviewed by Action Requested No action requested at this time. Discussion of the submission request to rename Lions Park to Lion John Weicht Memorial Park. Background/Discussion As stated in the Parks and Facilities Naming Policy,renaming of parks and facilities requires a submission in writing to the Parks and Recreation Commission through the Parks and Recreation Department. The attached proposal to rename Lions Park was submitted to the Parks and Recreation Department on Wednesday,May 7. While staff has not had sufficient time to review and authenticate all of the documents, an initial review indicates the renaming request is consistent with the criteria outlined in the naming policy for deceased persons. The Lions Club announced their intentions to staff in March to rename Lions Park. Staff recommends continuing the discussion and action until later this summer when the Parks and Recreation Master Plan is completed. Since November, staff has been recommending the Commission uphold a moratorium on action items related to capital projects,budget and policy decisions. While we don't expect major changes to Lions Park through the master planning process,the overall concept and support for Lions Park to become a designated "signature" park with various amenities will most likely be recommended. As per the naming policy, staff plans to post a 10-day notice for the renaming of Lions Park to "Lion John Weicht Memorial Park." for the June 11, 2014,meeting. Staff recommends that Commission members carefully review the renaming request proposal prior to the June 11 meeting. Financial Impact None at this time. If the name is changed,the city will have the cost of installing signs and changing marketing brochures. The current main sign at Lions Park is about$5,000. Attachments • Submission request to rename Lions Park • Parks &Facilities Naming Policy PA � ERE / / r NATURE 05-08-' 14 08:45 FROM- T-216 P0002/0002 F-639 r May 7,2014 Michael Hecker,Director Parks&Recreation Department 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River,MN 55330 Dear Mr.Hecker, On behalf of the Elk River Lions Club,I am requesting that the Parks&Recreation Commission consider renaming Lions Park to Lion John Weicht Memorial Park. John Weicht was born and raised in Elk River and spent his entire lifetime working as a general contractor and volunteering in our community for the betterment of those around him. John became a member of the Elk River Lions Club in the early 1980's and served on the Board of Directors,as President,treasurer and on the original Gambling Board. Additionally he served as acting director of the Lions' International Youth Camp. Lion's Park Center was built by Lion John. The cost for construction and supplies were kept to a minimum due to John's negotiating with friends and businesses to get materials and services either reduced or donated and by donating much of his services. For his years of leadership and service to the Elk River Lions he was twice awarded the"Lion of the Year" Award,the prestigious"Melvin Jones Fellowship"Award and the Club's "Distinguished Leadership Award". Additionally,John received many other awards including the Three Rivers Community Foundation's Hall of Fame Leadership Award,Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year Award,and Elk River Volunteer of the Month. Sadly,we lost John on May 13,2012 at the young age of 64 due to cancer. Due to Lion John's years of dedicated service and volunteerism to the community of Elk River and the Elk River Lions,we feel strongly that Lions Park should be renamed to Lion John Weicht Memorial Park in his memory. We thank you for considering this request and are optimist that this name change can occur creating a living memorial to a wonderful humanitarian,Lion John Weicht. Sincerely Lion Deb Weston President,Elk River Lions THE WEICHT HOUSE Sandy Weicht 13330 Island View Drive, Elk River, MN 55330 763-441-4112 weichthus34aol.com May 5, 2014 City of Elk River Parks and Facilities Department Elk River City Hall 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River, MN 55330 To whom it may concern, I, wife of the late John C. Weicht, am honored to give permission to name Lions' Park in honor of Lion John C. Weicht. He would have been so proud and humbled to be considered for this honor in his home town, the town he loved Thank you. Sincerely, aid7k la/let;ifr Sandy Weicht May 5, 2014 Information for Parks & Facilities Naming Policy John C Weicht by Sandy Weicht Page 2 la Enhanced the quality of life and well-being of city residents Central Lutheran Church John was very active at Central Lutheran Church since becoming a member in 1975. He has served on or as: Church Council (serving in the youth and property areas); Senior High Youth Advisor(provided own camper-bus for trips with youth, facilitated camping, sliding, and other activities—often picking up extra costs, spent time at LYE Conferences with the youth as chaperone and advisor-at own cost, opened own house for formal and informal get-togethers for youth as a group or individuals); coach for youth softball teams; Property Committee (maintenance and clean up of facility and property, researched relocating or ( P ltY P Petty expanding facility, etc.); host for visiting youth teams; usher and lead usher and was in charge of scheduling all of the ushers for four services a week, and special services; miscellaneous help as needed—building stages, props, banner holders, musician baffles, and other items and services. He helped with the decisions of when to build or remodel the facility. His work with youth enabled them to do worthwhile activities. His scheduling of the ushers cleared this type of work from an overworked and understaffed office. His financial contributions to Central were helpful in the building of new facilities and the year to year running of the church. He was a major financial contributor. His services, equipment and time were needed for many miscellaneous items very often. He was becoming active in his new church, Elk River United Methodist Elk River Lions The life of his community was important to John. Through Elk River Lions activities since 1983 he contributed his time, knowledge, expertise and use of his company equipment and resources. He hosted four international youth exchange students in his home, was acting director of the International Youth Camp; worked at Lions' projects of pancake breakfasts, senior breakfasts, Halloween parties, food stand worker at fairs, festivals, graduation parties, collecting food, and numerous other events; participated in parades representing the Lions (purchasing a golf cart, etc.); worked at various other fundraising functions and contributed to the worthwhile causes. John built the Lions Park Center, calling in many favors and donations from other businesses to keep the cost low. He also donated his entire contracting fee and spent many extra hours on the project. He and his family worked alongside other Lions and their families planting the trees in the park. The Lions gave the building and park to the city of Elk River. John built the Lions food stand at the Sherburne County Fair grounds. His skid steerers were at the Fair demolition derbies clearing the track. The Fair Board used John and his equipment, too. One of the best Lions' stories is the moving of the photo booth from George's parking lot to the Sherburne County Fair grounds. It has been a ticket booth at the arena and the baby changing booth and now the pit entrance office. The statute of limitations is surely past, so the story can be shared. With the help of Standard Lumber's and John's equipment, the Lions loaded the booth and the cement pad under it onto John's semi. It became a bigger job than anyone figured when the cement pad wouldn't come off. As the contingent of Lions surrounding the semi and flatbed walked down Main Street they pushed the electric lines up with long wooden poles. One of Elk Rivers finest drove by and shielded his eyes so he couldn't see what was happening. Many beers were raised in celebration of that job done. He served on the board of directors, as president and many years as treasurer of the local club. He was on the original Gaming Board, during the start-up years of legal gaming. Until his death he was the tail twister meaning he put more fun in the meetings and made people feel more welcome. He was active in most of the club's activities and projects and always went the extra mile. He attended the meetings and was a motivational force within the club. He exemplified Lionism in the community and enjoyed service to others. He was honored by his club by being awarded Lion of the Year twice, and the prestigious Melvin Jones Fellowship. In 2009 he was awarded the Distinguished Leadership Award for going above and beyond year after year. ISD 728 Elk River Schools He helped through out the years his children attended Independent School District 728, and on into their college careers by helping coach soccer, video taping choirs, drama groups, award ceremonies and various athletic activities for use in training, and reflection by these groups (by furnishing a tape). He was someone who would willingly contribute time and any other of his resources as needed—like building props for ice shows and plays at no cost to the organization. He worked the Elk River Graduation Party with the Lions and as head of security (being the co-chair of security committee for the year), and was co-chair of decorations committee for a year. Youth John believed all youth are at risk and we must help those at the edge but must provide opportunities for the good kids to stay good. We must enable all youth to become leaders. This value was demonstrated in his work with youth in many ways. Lake Orono Association John was on the Lake Orono sedimentation task force and spent time and resources in taking samples of the lake water and in meetings to dredge the lake. This was a long time project. It resulted in a much improved lake. Until his death he sat on the Sherburne County Water Board and was involved in the Lake Improvement meetings throughout the state. Until his death, John took part in many other activities with the Lake Orono Improvement Association, including informing the public about the beautiful resource of the Lake in our community and actually giving tours of the lake at our Heritage Festivals. At the time of his death he was a district representative and was on the board of directors. Educating people about the pine tree borer infesting the pine trees surrounding the lake and helping reduce the curly leaf pondweed in the lake were some of his last projects. Family and Friends John's family and friends were an important part of his life. The things they were involved in seemed to involve him. His resources and time were often used for projects that he hadn't been even remotely involved with —until recruited, of course. Page 2 lb Contributed to the preservation of the city's history or culture Land of Lakes Choirboys He was a long-time member of the board of directors of the Land of Lakes. Choirboys. John helped them secure land, build a building, appraise properties, advised on other building projects and in general used his skills to save them money. He physically helped with clean-up and maintenance projects at their facilities. Opening his home for hosting of visiting boys, and building props for concerts were other areas where he helped. He actively participated in fundraising, recruiting of other patrons, and in planning the future for this unique group of very talented boys. Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce The Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce benefited from his many hours setting up and working on expos and 4th of July celebrations. While helping the 4th of July celebrations, he also stepped into help the Little Britches Rodeo with his equipment. He set up and took down their rodeo chutes, using his equipment and time to help this youth organization. What ever equipment might be needed was used at no cost. In 2000 the Chamber awarded him and Sandy the Business Person of the Year Award to honor their contributions to the business community and the over all quality of life of the residents of Elk River and the surrounding area. Most work his company performed was within a twenty mile radius of Elk River. John believed that Elk River area should be the best it can be and that whenever possible business should be kept local. Page 2 lc Made exemplary or meritorious contributions to the city or its residents Awards, honors and mentions 2000 The Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the Year 2010 Three Rivers Community Foundation's Distinguished Leader Award 2012 City of Elk River Volunteer of the Month Award Elk River Lions Lion of the year twice Melvin Jones Award Distinguished Leadership Award Quote: Doug Johnson in his introduction at 2010 Three Rivers Community Foundation's Distinguished Leader Award Banquet "I have observed many who have given of their time and talents to certain organizations, to certain causes. Seldom, however, (perhaps never), have I known anyone who has given so much, so unconditionally to so many as John," Quote: Leslie O. Anderson in his book Memories of a Country Boy/Newspaper Man, page 221. "John Weicht has done more for the Lions Club and the City of Elk River than anyone I know." John received numerous awards for his building projects. His office walls held the many Star Steel Building awards for Outstanding Dealer. Many of his award winning buildings are in Elk River and surrounding area. Page 2 Id Contributed to the acquisition, development, or conveyance of land, buildings, structures, or other amenities to the city or community Lions Park and Lions Park Center John built the Lions Park Center, calling in many favors and donations from other businesses to keep the cost low. He donated a substantial amount and his entire contracting fee and spent many extra hours on the project. He and his family worked alongside other Lions and their families planting the trees in the park. The Lions gave the building and park to the city of Elk River. Elk River Boys and Girls Club In 1999 the Boys and Girls Club of Elk River benefited when John donated his entire contracting fee, as well as called in many favors and did much "arm twisting" of others in the construction field in order to get a $664,000 Boys and Girls Club built in Elk River. His many hours many nights a week were used in meetings with city, staff, and others in order to get this project completed in record time. He also served on their board of directors for many years Lions' Food Booth at Sherburne County Fairgrounds John built the Lions food stand at the Sherburne County Fair grounds. His skid steerers worked at the Fair demolition derbies clearing the track. The Fair Board used John and his equipment, too. Page 2 2b Those who have given outstanding service to mankind or who have worked over and above any ordinary interest level. See above. Page 3 A2 Written documentation of approval by next of kin. Sandra L. Weicht is honored to give permission for the City of Elk River to name Lions' Park after Lion John C. Weicht, my late husband. Thank you, Sandy Weicht (signed) THREE RIVERS COMMUNITY FOUNDATION LEADERSHIP HALL OF FAME JOHN WEICHT 9-22-2010 John Weicht has contributed to his church, community, and the quality of life of those who know him. Being his father's legs", John started roofing at age 15 and by 16 he was in business for himself. He also worked for Elk River Lumber where he built commercial projects out of town and out of state. It was while building a rutabaga warehouse in Askov he met Sandy, his future wife. After returning from his tour of duty in Vietnam, John rejoined the crew at Elk River Lumber. Ben Roper had requested an early out for John to come back to work. The company changed hands and became Standard Lumber. As the last crew Standard Lumber had erecting their buildings, George Cruickshank and John started their construction company when Standard Lumber stopped construction projects. George retired and now thirty six years later John's business has changed and grown. The start was pole buildings and homes. Becoming a steel building dealer opened a bigger market. John still did a few very exclusive custom homes. The last twenty years commercial, industrial and multi-family building has been the main stay of the business. John's specialty has always been design build. He has three partners in the construction business and several others in the development side. Most work has been within a twenty mile radius of Elk River. John believes that Elk River area should be the best it can be and that whenever possible business should be kept local. The Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce has benefited from his many hours setting up for expos and 4th of July celebrations. While helping the 4th of July celebrations, he has also stepped into help the Little Britches Rodeo with his equipment. He has set up and taken down their rodeo chutes, using his equipment and time to help this youth organization. What ever equipment might be needed was used at no cost. In 2000 the Chamber awarded him and Sandy the Business Person of the Year Award to honor his contributions to the business community and the over all quality of life of the residents of Elk River and the surrounding area. The life of his community is important to John. Through Elk River Lions activities since 1983 he has contributed his time, knowledge, expertise and use of his company equipment and resources. He has hosted four international youth exchange students in his home, was acting director of the International Youth Camp; worked at Lions' projects of pancake breakfasts, senior breakfasts, Halloween parties, food stand worker at fairs, festivals, graduation parties, collecting food, and numerous other events; participated in parades representing the Lions (purchasing a golf cart, etc.); worked at various other fundraising functions and contributed to the worthwhile causes. John built the Lions Park Center, calling in many favors and donations from other businesses to keep the cost low. He also donated his entire contracting fee and spent many extra hours on the project. He and his family worked alongside other Lions and their families planting the trees in the park. The Lions gave the building and park to the city of Elk River. John built the Lions food stand at the Sherburne County Fair grounds. His skid steerers can be seen at the Fair demolition derbies clearing the track. The Fair Board uses John and his equipment, too. *** (Picture) One of the best Lions' stories is the moving of the photo booth from George's parking lot to where it is now the baby changing booth at the Sherburne County Fair grounds. The statute of limitations is surely past, so the story can be shared. With the help of Standard Lumber's and John's equipment, the Lions loaded the booth and the cement pad under it onto John's semi. It became a bigger job than anyone figured when the cement pad wouldn't come off. As the contingent of Lions surrounding the semi and flatbed walked down Main Street they pushed the electric lines up with long wooden poles. One of Elk River's finest drove by and shielded his eyes so he couldn't see what was happening. Many beers were raised in celebration of that job done. He has served on the board of directors, as president and many years as treasurer of the local club. He also was on the original Gaming Board, during the start-up years of legal gaming. He currently is the tail twister meaning he puts more fun in the meetings and makes people feel more welcome. He is active in most of the club's activities and projects and goes the extra mile. He attends the meetings and is a motivational force within the club. He exemplifies Lionism in the community and enjoys service to others. He has been honored by his club by being awarded Lion of the Year twice, and the prestigious Melvin Jones Fellowship. Last year he was awarded the Distinguished Leadership Award for going above and beyond year after year. In 1999 the Boys and Girls Club of Elk River benefited when John donated his entire contracting fee, as well as called in many favors and did much "arm twisting" of others in the construction field in order to get a $664,000 Boys and Girls Club built in Elk River. His many hours many nights a week were used in meetings with city, staff, and others in order to get this project completed in,record time. He also served on their board of directors for many years John believes all youth are at risk and we must help those at the edge but must provide opportunities for the good kids to stay good. We must enable all youth to become leaders. This value is demonstrated in his work with youth in many ways. He was a long-time member of the board of directors of the Land of Lakes Choirboys. John has helped them secure land, build a building, appraise properties, advise on other building projects and in general used his skills to save them money. He has physically helped with clean-up and maintenance projects at their facility. Opening his home for hosting of visiting boys, and building props for concerts are other areas where he has helped. He has actively participated in fundraising, recruiting of other patrons, and planning of the future for this unique group of very talented boys. He helped through out the years his children attended Independent School District 728, and on into their college careers by helping coach soccer, video taping choirs, drama groups, award ceremonies and various athletic activities for use in training, and reflection by these groups (by furnishing a tape). He is also known as someone who will contribute time and any other of his resources as needed—like building props for ice shows and plays at no cost to the organization. He has worked the Graduation Party with the Lions and as head of security (being the co-chair of security committee for the year), and was co-chair of decorations committee for a year. John has been very active at Central Lutheran Church since becoming a member in 1975. He has served on or as: Church Council (serving in the youth and property areas); Senior High Youth Advisor(provided own camper-bus for trips with youth, facilitated camping, sliding, and other activities often picking up extra costs, spent time at LYE Conferences with the youth as chaperone and advisor—at own cost, opened own house for formal and informal get-togethers for youth as a group or individuals); coach for youth softball teams; Property Committee (maintenance and dean up of facility and property, researched relocating or expanding facility, etc.); host for visiting youth teams; usher and lead usher and now in charge of scheduling all of the ushers for four services a week, and special services; miscellaneous help as needed—building stages, props, banner holders, musician baffles, and other items and services. He has helped with the decisions of when to build or remodel the facility. His work with youth has enabled them to do worthwhile activities. His scheduling of the ushers has cleared this type of work from an overworked and understaffed office. His financial contributions to Central have been helpful in the building of new facilities and the year to year running of the church. He is a major financial contributor. His services, equipment and time are needed for many miscellaneous items on a continuing basis. He is now becoming active in his new church, Elk River United Methodist Church. John has been on the Lake Orono sedimentation task force and has spent time and resources in taking samples and meetings to dredge the lake. This was a long time project. It resulted in a much improved lake. He still sits on the Sherburne County Water Board and stays involved in the Lake Improvement meetings throughout the state. John has also taken part in many other activities with the Lake Orono Improvement Association, including informing the public about the beautiful resource of the Lake in our community and actually giving tours of the lake at our Heritage Festivals. At present, he is a district representative and is on the board of directors. Educating about the pine tree borer infesting the pine trees surrounding the lake and helping reduce the curly leaf pondweed in the lake are current projects. John's family and friends are important. The things they are involved in seem to involve him. His resources and time are used often for projects that he isn't even remotely involved with — until recruited, of course. John has received numerous awards for his building projects. His office walls hold the many Star Steel Building awards for Outstanding Dealer. Other loves of John's are hunting, fishing and time at his home in Florida. June of 2009 was the hunting trip of his life. After hunting with his brother Kenny in Alaska for 15 years, they hunted in South Africa. John bagged six types of antelope and a wart hog. Will reminded me that there is no mention of John's family. Sandy—wife of 41 years. Son -Will and wife Michelle, most wonderful grandkids in the world: Carlee (9 years) and Matthew(6 years) Natalie (2 years) UPDATED GRANDCHILDREN AS OF MARCH 2014 Daughter— Heidi and husband Wes Belanger, other most wonderful grandkids in the world: Randall (7 years) and Tanner 5 years) John has 5 brothers and 5 sisters. We were married September 27, 1969 in Bethlehem Lutheran at Askov, MN. Sandy Weicht If we were to ask John Weicht what he does for a living,I think there is every chance he would respond,"I am a builder and I have been a builder for life!" When we look more closely,indeed,John is a builder and has done so for many years,but this is not just his Profession and his materials have not been just-wood, steel and concrete. We members of The Hall of Fame Leadership Award Nominating Committee quickly came to realize John Weicht is a builder of buildings. - But perhaps more importantly,John is a builder of so much more. Like John,I have lived my entire life in the Elk River Area,during these years,I have observed many who have given of their time and talents to certain organizations,to certain causes. Seldom,however, (perhaps never),have I known anyone who has given so much,so unconditionally to so many as John. John believes in the local economy and in demonstration of this belief,he has always done everything he can to keep his work projects as close to home as possible—most often staying within a 20 mile radius. Early in his tenure as a local businessman,John recognized the importance of the Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce and its potential for breathing vitality into the local economy. Over the years, he has been quick to volunteer many hours at Chamber sponsored events such as the Business Expo and the 4t of July Celebrations. In addition to this,he has served as a member of the Chamber Board of Directors and a member of various committees including the Chamber Ambassadors. In the early 1980's John recognized the Lions Club as being THE local service orgabization which was then doing more than any to allow the community to benefit from its member's efforts. John decided he wanted to be a part of this and what an association it has been. John has served on the Lion's board of directors,served as president, for many years he has been the local club treasurer,He served on the ORIGINAL gaming board. He volunteered to build the Lion's Food Stand at the Sherburne County Fair Grounds, has volunteered his construction equipment to rid the demolition derby track of broken down vehicles, supervised the moving and renovation of the photo booth from the parking lot of George's Grocery Store to the fair grounds. John and his wife Sandy have hosted 4 International Youth Exchange Students in their home, John served as acting director of the Lion's International Youth Camp,worked at countless Lion Pancake Breakfasts, Senior Breakfasts,Halloween Parties, Food Stands,festivals and parades. John built the Lion's Park Center(calling in markers from many friends and business associates)to keep the cost as low as possible. In recognition of his fine work,the local Lions have recognized John twice as their"Lion of the Year",they have bestowed on him the prestigious"Melvin Jones Fellowship' and their club's"Distinguished Leadership Award." John ha' always been a willing volunteer at his local church. Serving on the Church Council, as Senior High Youth Advisor,coaching youth softball teams,serving on the Property and Grounds Committee,working on expansion and facilities committees, serving as an usher and Head Usher. John has been an active volunteer on the Lake Orono Sedimentation Task Force,the Lake Orono Improvement Association and the Sherburne County Water Board. John has always been of the opinion that many of our young people are at risk and as a result of this,they simply need a"leg up",a little guidance,a smile,a helping hand. Throughout the years,John and Sandy's children were students attending District 728,John helped with coaching,videotaping choirs,drama groups, athletic events,co-chairing and supervising at all night graduation parties,etc. And,of course any time there was need for help from someone with building expertise for sets or props,John was the first to be called and the most willing to participate. As a result of his concern for youth, in addition to his church work,work at the schools and work through various Lion's committees,he was a long time board member for the Land of Lakes Choirboys. Working with them as they acquired property,built a building,raised funds and expanded their base. John was one of the first to become involved in our local Boys and Girls Club Chapter. Not only serving on their board,but being the major driving force in planning their facility and doing whatever it took(including donating his entire contracting fee)to make the dream of this building become a reality. Most who know John,know of his dedication to those in our greater community who are less fortunate—this being evidenced in so many ways but particularly through his work with Options as they continue to provide workshops and vocational opportunities for the disabled. Well,I could stand here and go on and on and on,but you all get the idea. John Weicht is simply an incredible guy. John is someone who remembers the humble background from which he came. John appreciates the love of family,a strong faith, the work ethic and simple decency that was bred into him. He understands full well that he has been the recipient of much good fortunate—but like so few others,he genuinely accepts the responsibility that comes with good fortunate. He gives of his time and his talent in a truly incomparable way. John Weicht you're a builder,you've been a builder for life But John,what you've built is so very much more than just structures. You've built community, you've built charity, you've built good will, you've built lives and for this,The Three Rivers Foundation inducts you into its Leadership Hall of Fame and extends to you,its most sincere thank you. Introduction by Doug Johnson at Awards Ceremony 10-14-2010. tt, • EParks & Facilities Naming Policy River Purpose: The purpose of this policy is to establish a systematic and consistent approach for the official naming of parks and recreation areas and facilities. Objectives: • Ensure that parks,recreational areas and facilities are easily identified&located. • Ensure that given names to parks,recreational area and facilities are consistent with the values and character of the area or neighborhood served. • Encourage public participation in the naming,renaming and dedication of parks,recreation areas and facilities. • Encourages the dedication of lands, facilities, or donations by individuals and/or groups. Definition: Parks,recreation areas and facilities—includes all property assets under the City's ownership and the Parks and Recreation Department control including buildings, structures, open spaces,public parks, natural areas,wetlands, environmental habitat and land. Naming Criteria Priorities to be considered in naming all city facilities,including parks and recreation facilities (in order of importance) shall be as follows: A. Historic Names. Names of historic events,groups organizations,or persons at the local, regional, or national level of major significance with special consideration given to Elk River's own history. B. Places and Feature Names. 1. Recognizable area or neighborhood. Names that aid in locating a facility are acceptable. If the facility is located on a park or school site,the facility need not share the name of the park or school site. 2. Assumed Names. Assumed names should be used only if the area has been known by that assumed name for an extended period of time. For example, the parcel of land known for decades as `Bailey Point,"located near downtown at the south end of Morton Avenue at the confluence of the Mississippi and Elk Rivers. 3. Natural Features. Natural features, such as rivers,creeks,and terrain. 4. Horticultural Features. Horticultural features characteristic of a particular area. C. Individual, Groups, or Organizations. The following criteria will be used in evaluating the use of names of persons (whether living or deceased),groups, and organizations. 1. General Criteria. Names of persons,groups,or organizations having a longstanding affiliation with the City of ten (10) or more years of significant community service,involvement, or contributions beyond the ordinary interest level whose efforts have: a. Enhanced the quality of life and well-being of city residents; b. Contributed to the preservation of the city's history or culture; c. Made exemplary or meritorious contributions to the city or its residents; Or d. Contributed to the acquisition, development, or conveyance of land, buildings, structures, or other amenities to the city or community. 2. Deceased Persons. To be considered for a naming opportunity, the individual must have been deceased for at least two (2) years. Such individuals may include: a. Historic persons. b. National and/or local heroes. Those who have given outstanding service to mankind or who have worked over and above any ordinary interest level. An Elk River area resident,who has attained local, state, or national recognition for parks and recreation work or work in the areas of public safety or public health, as appropriate to the facility,would be highly acceptable. 3. Living Persons. Facilities may be named after living persons only after a study has been completed relative to the individual's background and qualifications pursuant to the criteria in this policy. 4. Groups and Organizations. Facilities may be named after groups or organizations pursuant to the criteria set forth in this policy. 2 Procedure: A. Naming of Parks, Recreation Areas and Facilities 1. A request for naming of a park,recreation area or facility shall be submitted in writing to the Parks and Recreation Commission,through the Parks and Recreation Department. 2. Those submitting a naming request should show how the proposed name is consistent with the criteria stated in this policy. When naming after a person or persons,the application will describe the contributions to the city. Written documentation of approval by next of kin to be honored (if available/possible) is required as part of the proposal. City staff will review the proposal for adherence to the stated criteria and authentication of statements relative to contributions in the case of an individual before forwarding to the Parks and Recreation Commission. If the request is incomplete, staff will contact the applicant,in writing,and provide them with the opportunity to resubmit a revised request. 3. The Parks and Recreation Commission will offer the opportunity for public input on the proposed naming. A notice requesting a public meeting for naming of a park,recreation area or facility shall be posted and published in the city's official newspaper at least 10 days prior to the meeting. 4. The Parks and Recreation Commission shall forward their recommendation to City Council for final decision. 5. The Parks and Recreation Commission can initiate the naming process whenever deemed necessary and/or in the best interest of the city. 6. In the absence of any naming requests, the Parks Recreation and Commission shall adhere to criteria stated in this policy in recommendation of name. B. Renaming of Parks, Recreation Areas and Facilities Renaming of parks,recreation areas and facilities carries with it a much greater burden of process compared to initial naming. Tradition and continuity of name and community identification are important community values. Each application must meet the criteria in this policy,but meeting all criteria does not ensure renaming. 1. A request for renaming of a park,recreational area or facility shall be submitted in writing to the Parks and Recreation Commission, through the Parks and Recreation Department. 2. The request shall include the proposed name change, the purpose of the change, and how the proposed name change is consistent with the criteria established. When renaming after a person or persons,the application will describe the contributions to the city. Written documentation approval by next of kin to be 3 honored (if available/possible) is required as part of the proposal. City staff will review the proposal for adherence to the stated criteria and authentication of statements relative to contributions in the case of an individual before forwarding to the Parks and Recreation Commission. If the request is incomplete, staff will contact the applicant,in writing, and provide them with the opportunity to resubmit a revised request. 3. The recognized Neighborhood Association will be notified of the proposal when the Parks and Recreation Department receive a complete application. 4. The Parks and Recreation Commission will offer the opportunity for public input on the proposed naming. A notice requesting a public meeting for naming of a park,recreation area or facility shall be posted and published in the city's official newspaper at least 10 days prior to the meeting. 5. The Parks and Recreation Commission shall forward their recommendation to City Council for final decision. 4 POLICY REVIEW HISTORY PARKS AND FACILITY NAMING POLICY Approved by City Council November 19, 2012. 5